In 1385 Sir Edward Dalyngrigge, a soldier of fortune, began the building of Bodiam Castle. He wanted to show off his power and wealth, as well as to defend the surrounding countryside. Debate continues over whether Bodiam was a fortress, a grand and comfortable house, or both. It's setting was a working estate with farmland, wharf and flour mill.
It was also elaborately landscaped with ponds and pools as well as the moat. These both added to the defences and made a picturesque scene to impress visitors.
Let's go on up and walk around before taking a look inside.
Just imagine getting caught under the Portcullis
These fireplaces heated something
Up one of the many spiral staircases
Indoor fireplace
At least it is not outside
Windows and doors
There would not be any glass of course
but probably shutters
Looking down inside from the battlements
Looking down outside from one of the towers
Looking down inside from the battlements
Looking down outside from one of the towers
We are off to Scotney House and Castle next
after a nice afternoon tea
Oh Barbara....I love your photos of this wonderful old castle...such fantastic history where you live...America is a young country by comparison...
ReplyDeleteThank you for such a lovely post...
Hi Barbara,
ReplyDeleteCongrats on your award. Your blog is fascinating. I love the pics and the testimony!
take good care,
Barb
You go to some vry interesting places. It is years since I visited Bodaim, and it was lovely to see it again.
ReplyDeleteBodiam Castle looks like it is all ruins. Does anyone live there now?
ReplyDeleteVery interesting!
Hi Barbara -
ReplyDeleteI would love to tour your area and the castles with you. I can't imagine living in one. I'll be back to see what else you have to share.
~Adrienne~
Bodiam Castle seems to be a very interesting historic building. And it is still beautiful today. Wondering what is inside...
ReplyDeleteCastles are so beautiful, but they couldn't have been the most comfortable places to live. Loved the indoor powder room, though.
ReplyDeleteHope that your tea was a delight! Looking forward to your next stop...
I enjoy all the angles you are showing of Bodiam Castle. I believe I correctly recall this castle featured on the cover of one of Donovan's record albums back in the 1960's, with a pink/red sunset or sunrise reflected in the water of the moat....at least, it looks like the same castle.
ReplyDeleteAm I right in thinking that looks somewhat like Caernarfon Castle? Same architect, maybe?
ReplyDeleteHello Barbara....
ReplyDeleteThank you for stopping by and leaving a comment, I’m always pleased to hear from you....
Beautiful posting about Bodiam Castle, what a well chosen and spectacular setting for a castle..... great pictures!
You’ve got me wondering about the comment you left me and Willow’s posting.... I think I’ve got it... and I’m sure watching this space!
Oh the toile wallpaper was fixed by Erin, Betty's Granddaughter... I love it!
May you and Alan enjoy a blessed Sunday. - Marion
I think I actually visited that castle many years ago. It certainly has been restored well.
ReplyDeleteThis is precisely the sort of castle I love most. Wonderful blending of the elements...Lots of stone, water, spiral staircases....the fireplaces....simply wonderful. The sort of place that gets the imagination going....
ReplyDeleteThanks, Barbara!